How to Choose an EDR tool

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools have become a vital component of modern cybersecurity. These tools offer real-time monitoring and detection of security threats on endpoints, including desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices. In this article, we will review three popular EDR tools on the market today: CrowdStrike, FleetDM, and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

CrowdStrike Falcon

CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-native EDR tool that uses machine learning to identify and prevent threats. This tool has a comprehensive set of features, including real-time visibility, threat hunting, and incident response capabilities. Falcon’s cloud-based architecture provides fast and easy deployment, scalability, and flexible pricing models.

CrowdStrike Falcon Pros

Uses machine learning to identify and prevent threats
Offers a comprehensive set of features, including real-time visibility and threat hunting
Cloud-based architecture allows for easy deployment and scalability
Flexible pricing models

CrowdStrike Falcon Cons

One of the most expensive EDR tools on the market
Requires a stable and reliable internet connection
Limited offline capabilities

FleetDM

FleetDM is an open-source EDR tool that offers endpoint management, monitoring, and incident response capabilities. This tool is designed for IT professionals and offers easy deployment, low resource usage, and a simple user interface. FleetDM’s open-source architecture allows for customization and integration with other security tools.

FleetDM Pros

Open-source architecture allows for customization and integration with other security tools
Easy deployment and low resource usage
Simple user interface
Free and open-source

FleetDM Cons

Limited incident response capabilities
Limited technical support
Requires some technical knowledge for customization

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cloud-based EDR tool that offers real-time threat detection, automated response, and endpoint management capabilities. This tool uses machine learning to detect and prevent threats and is integrated with other Microsoft security tools. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is suitable for businesses of all sizes and offers flexible pricing models.

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Pros

Uses machine learning to detect and prevent threats
Offers real-time threat detection and automated response
Integrated with other Microsoft security tools
Suitable for businesses of all sizes

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Cons

Limited customizability compared to other EDR tools
Limited support for non-Microsoft endpoints
Not suitable for organizations that require complete independence from Microsoft products

Endpoint Detection and Response Pricing

The pricing of EDR tools varies depending on the vendor, the number of endpoints, and the level of features required. Below is a summary of the pricing models for each tool.

CrowdStrike Falcon: Starts at $15 per endpoint per month
FleetDM: Free and open-source
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint: Starts at $5 per endpoint per month.

Choosing the Right EDR Tool for Your SOC

Choosing the right EDR tool for your security operations can be a challenging task. Each tool has its strengths and weaknesses, and the decision should be based on your organization’s unique requirements, budget, and technical expertise.

While CrowdStrike Falcon offers comprehensive features, it is the most expensive tool on the market.
FleetDM is free and open-source, but has limited incident response capabilities.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint offers automated response and endpoint management but is limited in customization.

When you are ready to learn which EDR tool will work best for your SecOps program, contact Blueberry Security for a free security assessment and SOC analysis. Our team of experts is ready to work with you and find the most effective EDR tool to complement your SIEM and SOC staffing strategies.